Unknown gunmen attacked the remote village of Binnari in Taraba State, northeastern Nigeria, killing at least 10 people and injuring many more, according to police.
Eyewitness accounts suggest the actual death toll may be significantly higher, with some reports indicating up to 20 fatalities and an NGO estimating as many as 50 deaths.
The attackers, riding approximately 50 motorcycles with two individuals per vehicle, struck just after midday Muslim prayers on Friday, carrying out a rampage lasting up to four hours.
Local authorities, criticized by Amnesty International for inadequate protection of rural communities, are currently searching bush areas for additional casualties.
This attack is part of a broader pattern of violence affecting Nigeria’s northwest, northeast, and central regions.
Police recovered 10 bodies with gunshot wounds upon arrival and continued patrolling to maintain order, though the assailants had already fled the scene.
“We managed to disperse the unknown gunmen without any casualties on our side due to the challenging terrain, which they are familiar with,” said Assistant Superintendent of Police Victor Mshelizah.
Officers continue searching nearby bush areas for potential victims, warning that the death toll may increase.
Community leader Malam Abubakar Saifullahi confirmed to AFP that the attackers looted shops, taking cash, food, and other provisions, as well as motorcycles abandoned by fleeing residents.
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